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Cadet Program

Portland Police Bureau Cadet Program

The Police Cadet Program is designed to offer an introduction to law enforcement for young men and women interested in pursuing a career in this rewarding profession. The Program provides mentorship, classroom instruction and hands-on training.

Upon completion of the Program, we encourage Cadets who wish to continue in the field of law enforcement to apply with the Portland Police Reserve Unit and, when eligible, take part in the Portland Police Bureau testing process.

What are the Cadet Program's Objectives?

Instill an understanding and appreciation of the criminal justice system, and the professional ethics applied to law enforcement.

Develop an appreciation and understanding of Oregon laws.

Our goal is for the Cadets to become future Community Police Officers for the Portland Police Bureau.

What will I do as a Police Cadet?

Once accepted into the Program, Cadets are assigned to one of three Precinct Posts. Police Cadets work many details and assignments in uniform and are involved in the following areas of community events and services:

Ride Along Application

To gain a better understanding of the community service you could offer and the experience you will gain as a Police Cadet please apply to go on a Ride Along.

Apply for a Ride Along:

To apply for a ride along with a police officer, please print the below form and return it (fax or mail) to the precinct of your choice. Make sure to include a specific date allowing at least three weeks for an officer to be scheduled for your Ride Along. Also include the specific shift you would like to experience: Morning 7am - 5pm, Afternoon 4pm - 2am, Night 10pm - 8am. Although you are not required to stay for the entire shift, we do ask that you dedicate at least 5 - 6 hours of your time. Ride-Along Request Form [PDF]